CHAPTER X.
WOOD FINISHING.
STAINS.
The function of stains is to change the color, and to enchance the grain and texture of the wood.

Stains may be divided into four general classes, which are not, however, entirely distinct.

(1) Oil stains, (2) Water stains, (a) made from anilines, (b) made from dyes other than anilines, (3) Spirit stains, (4) Stains due to chemical changes.
(1) _Oil stains._ Advantages: they are easily prepared, are easy to apply evenly, and they do not raise the grain.

Disadvantages: they cover the grain somewhat, are apt to give a muddy effect, they do not penetrate very deeply into the wood, and it is impossible to stain hard wood dark with them and at the same time keep the grain and texture of the wood clear.

A convenient form in which to handle these pigments is Devoe's "coach colors," ground in japan.